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### Instructions for Making Bang Bang Chicken
Making **Bang Bang Chicken** is relatively simple and involves two main steps: preparing the crispy chicken and then tossing it in the sauce. Here’s how to make it:
#### **Step 1: Marinate and Prepare the Chicken**
1. **Cut the chicken breasts** into bite-sized cubes, making sure to remove any excess fat or tendons.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the **buttermilk**, **salt**, **pepper**, and **garlic powder**. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and mix well. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20-30 minutes. This will help the chicken stay juicy and flavorful.
#### **Step 2: Prepare the Coating**
1. In a separate bowl, combine the **flour**, **cornstarch**, and **baking powder**. This mixture will create the crispy coating for the chicken. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
2. In another bowl, lightly beat the **egg**.
#### **Step 3: Coat the Chicken**
1. After the chicken has marinated, dip each piece into the egg wash, then coat it thoroughly with the flour-cornstarch mixture. Ensure each piece is well-coated for a crunchy crust.
#### **Step 4: Fry the Chicken**
1. Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to medium-high heat. You want enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces so they can cook evenly.
2. Once the oil is hot (you can test by dropping a small amount of flour into the oil—if it sizzles, it’s ready), carefully add the chicken pieces in batches.
3. Fry the chicken for about **4-5 minutes** until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
#### **Step 5: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce**
1. In a small bowl, combine the **mayonnaise**, **sweet chili sauce**, **sriracha sauce**, **honey**, and **rice vinegar**. Stir well until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust the heat level by adding more sriracha or sweet chili sauce to your liking.
#### **Step 6: Toss the Chicken in the Sauce**
1. In a large bowl, add the crispy chicken pieces and pour the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the top.
2. Toss the chicken gently until it is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
#### **Step 7: Serve and Enjoy**
1. Serve your **Bang Bang Chicken** immediately while it’s still crispy and warm. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or cilantro if desired for a fresh touch.
2. You can serve this dish as a main course with rice or noodles, or as an appetizer with a side of dipping sauce. It also pairs well with a simple salad for a lighter meal.
### Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken
– **Frying**: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become greasy. If the oil is too hot, the chicken may burn on the outside while remaining raw inside. Aim for around 350°F (175°C) when frying.
– **Crispier Chicken**: For an extra crispy coating, you can double coat the chicken. Dip the marinated chicken in the egg wash, coat it in the flour mixture, dip it again in the egg wash, and coat it again with the flour mixture before frying.
– **Adjust the Spice**: The balance of sweet and spicy in the sauce is key. If you like it milder, reduce the sriracha sauce, or if you want it spicier, increase the amount of chili sauce and sriracha.
– **Baking Option**: If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can bake the chicken at **400°F (200°C)** for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. This will significantly reduce the amount of oil used in the recipe.
### Why You’ll Love Bang Bang Chicken
1. **Crispy and Juicy**: The chicken is perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This contrast in texture is what makes each bite so satisfying.
2. **Flavorful Sauce**: The combination of sweet chili, sriracha, and mayonnaise creates a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that coats the chicken in a way that’s irresistibly delicious.
3. **Versatile**: While Bang Bang Chicken is often served as an appetizer, it can easily be turned into a main dish by pairing it with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad.
4. **Quick and Easy**: Despite the deep-frying step, this dish is quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. You’ll have a restaurant-quality meal in no time!
### Conclusion
**Bang Bang Chicken** is a mouthwatering dish that brings the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and creaminess, all while satisfying your craving for crispy, tender chicken. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want something that everyone will love, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to be amazed by the deliciousness of this irresistible dish. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or snack, **Bang Bang Chicken** is sure to make a lasting impression on your taste buds!
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